When a continuous fire alarm sounds, the primary action is to evacuate the building immediately and proceed to a designated safe area, such as the fire assembly point. It is crucial not to ignore the alarm or attempt to investigate, as it indicates a potential fire hazard that requires prompt attention.
Immediate Actions
- Stay calm and avoid panic to think clearly and act swiftly.
- Evacuate via the nearest safe exit, avoiding elevators and closing doors behind you if possible.
- Assist others if you can, especially vulnerable individuals.
- Do not go back inside until authorities have declared it safe.
- Call emergency services if you suspect a fire or see signs of danger, such as smoke or flames.
Additional Recommendations
- Follow your building's specific fire safety plan, which may include checking the fire panel or fire detectors if safe.
- If the alarm continues despite no visible signs of fire, there might be system malfunction or false alarms, requiring professional inspection and maintenance.
Important Note
Never attempt to silence or disable the alarm without ensuring safety. False alarms can usually be addressed by resetting or replacing the alarm device, but only after evacuation if there's any doubt of danger.
In summary, when a fire alarm sounds continuously, the safest course of action is to evacuate immediately, assist others, and wait for official clearance before re-entering the building.
